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Imagine my surprise when I read that Trevor Chappell fears for the future of the series named in his honour.
The man whose underarm delivery forms part of the very foundations of trans-Tasman rivalry reckons the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy will struggle to survive in a congested cricket calendar.
His concerns come as our mates across the ditch bemoan the fact the Chappell-Hadlee series, which begins in Sydney today, robs some of their players of the chance to prepare for upcoming tests against Pakistan by playing Sheffield Shield cricket for their state. Because of course playing a domestic four-day match trumps the intensity of a one-day international series. What an inconvenience for them.
This says a lot about how much our mates are hurting after their embarrassing home Test series defeat to South Africa, but it says more about their arrogance towards a team that's beaten Australia in three of the last five one dayers between the two countries.
It's time Australian cricket woke up to itself. You're just not that good anymore.
(Photosport)
You'd think that given Australia still top the one day rankings, some of these critics might care a little more about a series against arguably their fiercest rival in the 50-over format. Especially given that their ODI form leading into the match reads LLLLL. Five straight losses by an understrength Australian team in South Africa proved they no longer have the depth to roll out a second XI and expect to beat leading international teams.
At least their selectors have picked a full-strength squad for this series, which will present a challenge for the Blackcaps batsmen in particular. Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood are back after missing that ill-fated tour of South Africa, and are among the best in the business.
What I'm looking for in this series is the leadership of Kane Williamson. He showed tactical brilliance at the World T20 in his first task as skipper, and after a difficult time abroad came home to guide his team to an impressive series whitewash against Pakistan.
But it's the one day format where he will face the greatest pressure to live up to the standards set by his predecessor. Brendon McCullum revolutionised the 50-over game through bold, aggressive tactics which matched the way he played with bat in hand.
Williamson is a different person, a different player, and this series presents a perfect opportunity for him to stamp his mark and create a new identity for the side. The challenge Australia presents isn't easy, but Williamson leads a team which possesses a top order that has the intelligence and skills to cope with Australian conditions, a middle order that has the power to capitalise, and a bowling attack that has proved it can tear up the best batting line-ups in the world.
It's up to Williamson to use his tactical nous to outsmart and outwit and Australian side that's hurting, under pressure to win, and not as good as it once was.
That's why I'm looking forward to the Chappell-Hadlee series, even if some across the ditch aren't.
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